Every year, thankfully mostly after the nesting season, Irelands ( and many other countries) hedgerows are cut back which is perfectly reasonable. The problem which most people have is not that they are cut back but they are done with such severity by heavy duty machinery. Often the remaining hedges and trees resemble the aftermath of a battle! 

Surely a better way to manage  would be the use of the ancient practice of hedge laying ..?.

Surely a different type of machinery could be provided which would cause less severe damage ?

If training in hedge laying were offered to willing landowners  ..or / and 

Grants for less aggressive machinery 

Could we see a postive change in our landscapes? 

Hedges and trees are vital for our wildlife, providing shelter and food throughout the year. These present practices are denuding our landscapes, as much biodiversity does not recover from such severe treatment.

Leaving us with landscapes of " tidy" hedges and grass, devoid of wildflowers , butterflies , fungi...or any of the many things necessary to the survival of our wildlife and ultimately our own lives.

Thank you.for taking the time to read this ..hopefully we can raise awareness of this issue and begin a change in attitudes.